Stop Distracted Driving
Stop Distracted Driving
CDL holders have special responsibilities on the road.
In some form or another, distracted driving has always been a safety concern. However, the widespread increase in cellphone use over the past decade has put an increased focus on the hazard of distracted drivers. It is universally recognized that hand-held mobile device use, especially texting, while driving greatly increases the risk of an accident. In fact, texting while driving is so distracting studies have shown it to be as dangerous as drunk driving.
When you are distracted behind the wheel, you not only put yourself in danger but also endanger the lives of those sharing the road with you. As a CDL holder you have certain responsibilities that regular license holders do not have. While any distraction behind the wheel is a potential hazard, some distractions may even be illegal.
DOT Regulation
In an effort to reduce accidents caused by distracted driving, the Department of Transportation (DOT) has banned the use of all hand-held mobile phones by interstate commercial drivers. This means that you cannot place calls, receive calls or text while driving.
To use hand-held mobile devices, you need to pull over to the side of the road. Once parked in an area where your vehicle can safely remain stationary, you may use hand-held devices.
Hands-Free Devices
Drivers may continue to use hands-free devices, but only if they do not cause a distraction. Points to remember:
- It is illegal to dial calls, provided dialing requires the driver to push more than one button.
- In order to answer the call, the cellphone must be within a driver’s reach, easily accessible.
- Citizens’ Band (CB) radios, two-way radios and walkie-talkies are permitted.
- Drivers are allowed to use a hand-held mobile device in cases of emergency, so long as they are notifying law enforcement or other emergency services.
- Certain states do have outright bans on the use of cellphones; be aware of the laws in your area of operations.
Requirements
TrueNorth Transportation strives to align itself with any and all government regulation that affects our operations. In an effort to maintain a safe and healthy work environment for all, you are expected to follow all DOT rules on cell phone use while driving.
TSA: Truckers Service Association
Truckers Service Association is a non-profit organization we work with to deliver specialized benefits and insurance products to owner-operators to optimally protect their businesses and families. Find out more about TSA by visiting their website, www.tsatruck.com. TSA offers a number of value-added benefits to drivers with membership.
TrueNorth Keeps You Safe on the Road
At TrueNorth, our mission is to assist transportation companies and their people with protecting and maximizing assets, resources and opportunities. Learn how TrueNorth's Transportation Division can help you achieve your goals and provide peace of mind while you're on the road. Call us today at (800) 877-9637.